So why does it seem as if she might have been born to play the iconic Wicked Witch of the West in “Wicked,” Jon M. Chu’s musical movie adaptation of author Gregory Maguire’s 1995 “Wizard of Oz” prequel novel and its 2003 Broadway musical?

Erivo will join principal POPS conductor Steven Reineke for the show, which will feature songs from "The Color Purple," "Harriet," "Wicked" and more. Erivo released her debut album "Ch. 1 Vs. 1" in 2021.

Kebede takes on the role after Erivo starred as the green witch in the film adaptation. Erivo previously commented on the lack of Black actresses playing Elphaba in her 2024 ELLE cover story.